This past weekend Manny Pacquiao lost his welterweight title to the Australian underdog Jeff Horn. The unanimous decision loss did not sit well with ‘The Pac Man’ and he’s now taking action against the WBO. His team released a statement where he described the officiating as ‘unfair’.
“I love boxing and I don’t want to see it dying because of unfair decision and officiating. I had already accepted the decision but as a leader and, at the same time, fighter, I have the moral obligation to uphold sportsmanship, truth and fairness in the eyes of the public.”
A separate statement released by a Philippine sports regulatory body confirmed that they will not let this slide.
“We are making this request for a review, which may call for sanctions on the referee and judges if so warranted.”
The WBO has now responded to these statements on Twitter.
The discretion of a referee or judge cannot be reversed, except in a case of fraud or violation of laws which is not the case in Pac vs Horn
— WBO (@WorldBoxingOrg) July 4, 2017
The contract for Pac vs Horn provides a rematch clause, which the WBO is in accordance if the promoters decide to move forward.
— WBO (@WorldBoxingOrg) July 4, 2017
The sanctioning body is basically saying that the result will stay as is and Pacquiao’s L will not change. However, Pacquiao still has a shot at redemption through a rematch.